Choosing the Right Permanent Cosmetics Professional
Choosing the right Permanent Cosmetic Professional should not be taken lightly when you are considering having any permanent cosmetic procedure performed. These procedures are performed on highly sensitive and delicate areas of the face and body. Therefore it is imperative that you choose a practitioner that holds a certification in Permanent Cosmetics, has extensive training, and experience, and is a true artist. Here is a list of the things to look for when choosing the right Permanent Cosmetic professional.
Certifications, Training, and Experience:
Most people do not realize that the state of North Carolina does not require Permanent Cosmetic providers to hold any specific certifications to perform Permanent Cosmetics (this includes Eyebrow Microblading). Anyone can do it anywhere without passing a test to prove they possess the ability to perform these procedures and have artistic capabilities.
The best Permanent Cosmetic Professionals will have received extensive training from a certifying institution that includes hands-on training with an instructor. When you choose a Permanent Cosmetic Professional, it is critical that they have proof of certification from a reputable institution and they are not just a practitioner that has undergone an “apprenticeship.” Never let a “student” work on you. Don’t run the risk of a botched Permanent Makeup procedure. A bad makeup tattoo on your face is permanent until it is removed (if it can be).
For delicate corrective procedures such as cleft lip and scars camouflaging, skin repigmentation or areola restoration, often referred to as Paramedical Tattooing, your Permanent Cosmetic Professional should also be certified in Micropigmenation with the American Academy of Micropigmentation and be a Licensed Paramedical Tattoo Artist.
Doctors and nurses who offer Permanent Cosmetics should also have certifications proving that they too, have received hands-on, specialized training in Permanent Cosmetics and Paramedical Tattooing. Just because someone is a medical Professional does not mean they have artistic capabilities or in-depth knowledge to successfully perform Permanent Cosmetics procedures.
The industry of Permanent Cosmetics and Mircopigmentation changes continually, and a true Professional will always strive to do what is best to deliver the best and safest service to their clients by continuously educating themselves. Ask your Permanent Cosmetic Professional if they are up to date on the latest procedures, industry, product, and safety standards.
Health and Safety:
Your face and health are at risk for infections and transmission of blood-borne pathogens when undergoing any Permanent Cosmetics, Microblading, or Paramedical procedure. That’s why Permanent Cosmetic Professionals must follow the most stringent health and safety regulations. Make sure your Permanent Cosmetic Professional holds all of their mandatory certifications and licensure for health and safety standards required by the State and County.
The first thing to look for is that the Permanent Cosmetic Professional has a current Tattoo license issued by County Health and Human Services. In order to perform Permanent Cosmetics, Microblading, Paramedical Tattooing, and general Tattooing, each professional artist must hold a Tattooing Permit issued by the State, which is renewed annually. This license ensures they are not reusing needles, have proper disposal of waste, have completed health-related training, and practice proper sterilization techniques, among other safety considerations.
Permits are issued to the individual who will be performing the procedure, and each person should have their own permit. Artists cannot share a permit. If your artist does not hold his or her own license, do not put yourself at risk.
Also, all Permanent Cosmetic Professionals must have a certification that they have completed their annual training for the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens standard practices. You can verify they are adhering to the OSHA standards by asking to see their OSHA certification.
Licenses and certificates should be posted in a prominent place for you to see. If you do not see any certifications for the technician, ask to see them before they begin any work on you. Just because someone says they are certified doesn’t mean that they are or that their certifications are up to date.
Precision and Artistry:
Permanent Cosmetics is not “one size fits all.” Each of us is unique, and there are many things for you and your Permanent Cosmetic Professional to consider during your consultation. You may want a particular look, but a true professional and artist will discuss the pros and cons of what you want, the results you can expect, or what may or may not work for you. Your Permanent Cosmetic Professional will take into consideration your particular skin tone and color, the shape of your face, your features, as well as the color of your hair when determining the ideal pigment colors that will ensure the best look for you. Permanent Cosmetics should enhance your look and make you look and feel your best. And since it is permanent, there is no room for guesswork or trial and error.
Your Permanent Cosmetic artist should also take measurements for particular procedures. For example, measuring your eyebrows to ensure that they will be proportionate and even. They should show you the measurements and draw on the proposed shape before starting so the two of you can agree on the look and shape. They should also provide you with artistic guidance to help you achieve your goals while making you look your best. If the technician does not measure your brows, this is a sign that you could end up with less-than-beautiful results.
The Best Tools:
Make sure your Permanent Cosmetic Professional uses the highest quality color pigments for all of their procedures. Such quality products should be tested and proven to be safe, hypoallergenic, and guaranteed to produce the longest-lasting and best results. Lower-grade pigments can change in the skin over time due to exposure to sunlight, skin rejuvenating glycolic acids, Retina-A, and many other factors. Some colors, such as black, fade more quickly than others, and procedures need to be refreshed in time. Some pigments can also migrate (leak) past the area of the procedure, making it look streaky or blurry. The types of pigments used can make a huge difference in your Permanent Makeup’s end results and longevity.
In addition to the pigments used, your Permanent Cosmetic Professional should have a clean, sterile, well-maintained pigment delivery system. Ask the technician what pigment delivery equipment they use. You do not want an artist who is using a rotary system. These are typically used for tattoo parlors, not Permanent Cosmetics. Rotary machines can do damage to the skin, causing the buildup of scar tissue and Keloids (discolored and raised scar tissue that can grow over time).
Before and After Photos:
You wouldn’t choose a plastic surgeon without seeing samples of his or her work. So, apply the same logic to your search for a Permanent Cosmetic Professional. Ask to see photos of past clients so you can get an idea of their style, technique, and overall ability. A good artist should have lots of pictures of each type of procedure they offer.
References, Ratings, and Testimonials:
It is also a good idea to read online reviews and check ratings for various Permanent Cosmetic providers, but ask your Permanent Cosmetic Professional for client references too. This helps to ensure that the reviews and ratings online are consistent with what previous clients have experienced.
Pricing:
We all know “you pay for what you get.” And this couldn’t be truer in the field of Permanent Cosmetics. You should never let price be the determining factor when it comes to Permanent Cosmetics. This is your face, and a bargain price isn’t a bargain if the result is less than beautiful. Permanent Cosmetics is not a service to buy on impulse or with a coupon. Don’t treat your permanent cosmetic procedure like a trip to a tattoo parlor. Low prices or promotions that seem too good to be true often speak to a technician’s lack of experience. The end result may not be what you wanted, or worse yet, you may need to find a qualified professional to fix mistakes that are made by a novice, which in the end, will cost you more money.
Correction Policies:
Ask the Permanent Cosmetic Professional what their correction policies are. If you receive a service and you are unhappy with your results, you will want to know what their commitment to you is to correct it. A true Permanent Cosmetic Professional will always stand behind their work.
Set Up A Consultation:
Take time to schedule a consultation with the Permanent Cosmetic Professional you are considering. It is well worth the extra time spent to be assured of quality Permanent Cosmetics that you can enjoy for years to come. Good communication between you and the artist is of the utmost importance, so you must feel comfortable with the person you choose.
Permanent Cosmetics can enhance your beauty and give you freedom from applying makeup daily. Just be sure to do your research and follow these tips before choosing the artist who will make you look fabulous.
